I’m writing this with a mix of frustration and urgency because, like so many others, I’ve recently fallen victim to fraud. It’s not exactly the holiday cheer I was hoping to kick off the season with, but here we are. If this experience has taught me anything, it’s that scams are becoming more sophisticated, and none of us can be too careful—especially during the holidays, when distractions are high and vigilance is low.

So today, I’m sharing my story, not because I enjoy reliving it (I don’t), but because I don’t want this to happen to you. I received a few emails from Capital One notifying me that my email and phone number had been updated. When I checked the emails and phone number on file, they were not my email or phone number. Since they had been set as my new primary email and phone number, I was not allowed to change them in the App. I had to call the fraud department to get it resolved. I also received an email letting me know that my Capital One Business Checking Account was now active and ready for use. Again, I did not open the checking account. I called to let them know and was told that I have to call back during banking business hours. Resolving these problems is time consuming.

Here’s what I’ve learned (the hard way) and what you can do to protect yourself:

1. Be Skeptical of Emails and Texts
   • If you receive an unexpected message claiming to be from a company you trust, don’t click on links or provide personal information. Instead, go directly to their official website or call their customer service line to confirm the communication is legitimate.
2. Watch for Red Flags
   • Urgency: Scammers often pressure you to act quickly.
   • Grammar mistakes: Many scams have typos or awkward wording.
   • Unusual sender addresses: Look carefully at the email address or phone number—it may be slightly off.
3. Monitor Your Accounts
   • Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity. Set up alerts for any unusual transactions.
4. Use Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication
   • Make your accounts harder to access by using unique, strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication wherever possible.
5. Be Wary of Holiday Deals That Are Too Good to Be True
   • If a website is offering a designer handbag for $25 or a brand-new PS5 at half price, it’s probably a scam.
6. Don’t Overshare on Social Media
   • Sharing your travel plans, shopping habits, or personal information can make you a target.
7. Freeze Your Credit
   • If you’re concerned about identity theft, consider freezing your credit. It’s free and prevents scammers from opening new accounts in your name.
8. Report Suspicious Activity
   • If you suspect fraud, report it to your bank, credit card company, and local authorities immediately. Also, alert the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov

I put #7 in bold because I was not aware of this ability and it seems like the best way to prevent someone from opening any credit account in your name. You have to do it across all credit agencies, and it is free. Scammers are getting smarter, but so can we. By staying vigilant and taking a few precautions, you can protect yourself from the stress, hassle, and financial damage of fraud.

Let’s make this a season of joy—not one of cleaning up after a scam. Stay safe out there, and if you’ve experienced fraud yourself, don’t hesitate to share your story. The more we talk about it, the harder it gets for scammers to win.

XX,

MG

TEA IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD